A pizzeria in Wisconsin has issued a public apology after an accidental mix-up in the kitchen left customers unknowingly consuming cannabis. The mishap occurred when a staff member at Famous Yeti’s Pizza mistakenly used cannabis-infused oil while preparing pizza dough, resulting in several diners experiencing an unexpected “high.”
Reports suggest that dozens of pizzas were laced with THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis. As a result, five customers required medical attention due to symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and hallucinations.
Famous Yeti’s Pizza took to social media to apologize, stating: “We sincerely apologize (sic) for any inconvenience or harm caused.”
THC, also known as tetrahydrocannabinol, is the substance in marijuana responsible for causing the euphoric effects typically associated with the drug. When ingested, it can lead to a variety of symptoms, including vomiting, anxiety, and disorientation—symptoms that can be particularly distressing for unsuspecting consumers.
Health officials initially launched an investigation into the customers’ complaints, suspecting carbon monoxide poisoning due to the symptoms reported. However, the investigation took a turn when a customer compared the experience to consuming a cannabis edible, prompting tests for THC in the kitchen.
When the tests confirmed the presence of THC, the source was traced back to a shared commercial kitchen. During a shortage of cooking oil, a chef had used an alternative supply from the shared kitchen space, unaware that the oil contained Delta-9, a form of THC commonly used in cannabis products.
Cale Ryan, the owner of Famous Yeti’s Pizza, acknowledged the error, explaining: “Sixty contaminated pizzas were unknowingly served. The commercial kitchen supports multiple small food entrepreneurs, including a business that creates products containing Delta-9.”
Ryan also assured customers that the contaminated products were destroyed immediately and outlined steps being taken to prevent a repeat of the incident. “Famous Yeti’s is working closely with local authorities to improve our storage and security protocols to prevent this from happening again and to guarantee the safety of our customers.”
Bonnie Armstrong, the director of environmental health at Public Health Madison & Dane County, urged anyone who had consumed the pizza and felt unwell to seek medical help. “We want to be sure anyone who has this pizza on hand throws it away so they don’t get sick,” she advised. In case of worsening symptoms, she emphasized the importance of calling emergency services.
This unusual incident has raised concerns about food safety and the importance of strict protocols in kitchens, especially those that share spaces with businesses producing products containing controlled substances. While no long-term harm has been reported, the restaurant’s quick response has helped ease the concerns of its patrons.
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